In every great school, there are teachers who do more than educate — they build foundations, shape futures, and quietly weave themselves into the heart of a community. For Celeste ISD, one of those treasured educators is Kim Rhoden, whose dedication, warmth, and lifelong love for her hometown have touched generations of Blue Devils.
Kim’s story is one of full-circle devotion. A proud 1974 graduate of Celeste High School, she grew up walking the same halls she would one day teach in. After starting college, marrying, and raising two children, Kim returned to pursue her dream of teaching — graduating from East Texas State University in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Math and Elementary Education, along with a Reading specialization and ESL certification.
She began her teaching career at Celeste Elementary School in the fall of 1986, starting with a self-contained 5th grade class. Over the years, as the school moved to a departmentalized system, Kim taught math and reading to students from grades 3 to 8. Today, she continues to do what she loves most — sharing the joy of reading with her students each day.
Kim’s teaching has always gone beyond the classroom. From cheering on UIL teams to standing courtside at basketball games, she has made it her mission to support students in every facet of their lives. “I hope that by staying here all these years I have made some impact on students to try to excel,” she says. And without a doubt, she has — not only through her instruction but through her constant encouragement and unwavering belief in each child’s potential.
The foundation for Kim’s calling was laid long ago by the many inspirational teachers she remembers from her own school days — names like Mrs. Jestena Hunter, Mr. T.B. Weatherley, and Mrs. Pam Evans, to name just a few. Their fun, challenging lessons and school spirit sparked something in Kim that would later become her life’s work. And now, for over 35 years, she has passed that same spark on to countless students.
Celeste is not just where Kim teaches — it’s where she has always belonged. She and her husband chose to raise their family here, and now, both of their children and several grandchildren are proud CHS graduates. Her life and work are deeply rooted in the values of home, hard work, and heart.
“I think my 35+ years of teaching has been the glue that held us all together,” Kim reflects. “The school has been the focal point of all our lives at many different junctures.”
This summer, Kim and her husband will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, surrounded by family, friends, and memories made right here in the community she loves so dearly. Whether it’s fishing with the grandkids, stitching by hand, or waving to former students as they pass by the yard, Kim finds joy in the simple moments — the kind that speak volumes about a life well-lived and a career well-spent.
To Kim Rhoden — thank you. Thank you for your years of dedication, for the lessons that lasted, for showing up time and time again with love, patience, and pride. Celeste ISD is better because of you, and your legacy will live on in the lives you’ve touched, the traditions you’ve upheld, and the community you’ve so wholeheartedly served.
You are, and always will be, Blue Devil proud — and we are forever proud of you.
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